I need you to breathe. Take a deep breath through your nose, hold it for 5 seconds, and exhale through your mouth. Do it 3 times. Relax those shoulders.

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Let’s get into it!

Things are still wild in the world. I don’t need to remind you how worrying things are—or how they’re looking for the future—but at the same time, we ain’t got too much time for that shit. Bills are still due!

Last month, we talked about how normal doesn’t equal natural. This month, we’re talking resiliency and the importance of standing on business.

Every day, life puts us in situations where we have to make a choice—or even a series of choices. Those choices will usually either bring you closer to your goals or pull you further away. They’ll either let you operate within your values or push you outside of them.

Peer pressure is a helluva thing. Sometimes we fuck up. Sometimes we make the right call. And a lot of times, we just get lucky. You know it and I know it. There have been plenty of times I did the “wrong” thing and didn’t suffer the consequences I could’ve faced. I’ve knowingly done the wrong thing, and I’ve knowingly done the right thing.

So how do I decide what’s right for me? By asking: Will this choice bring me closer to or further away from my goals? And can I do it while staying true to my values?

If a choice violates my values, it’s not on the table. Period. ICE is offering six figures, student loan repayment, and a hefty bonus, but we all know what ICE is out here doing. I couldn’t look myself in the mirror. I wouldn’t feel comfortable telling anyone that was my job. So for me, that’s an easy “no.”

But not all decisions are that clear-cut. What do you do when the choice is setting a boundary vs. keeping the peace at home? What about when your supervisor or coworker throws a backhanded compliment your way? Or when your friend’s behavior makes you feel a way, and you’re not sure if you should speak up?

What about when you’re pressured to go above and beyond at work—even though you’re miserable—because you’re scared of what might happen to your position in this trash job market? Or when your family keeps dancing on your last nerve, but you’re expected to smile and play nice at the holiday table?

What do you do?

👉🏾 You stand on business.

If you don’t agree with it, don’t go along with it. Doesn’t matter if it’s family, friends, a boss, or even the government. Stand on business, because you are worth it.

Here are a few affirmations to carry with you this season:

• I give myself permission to rest and recharge. You don’t need to earn your peace.

• I am worthy of joy, even in small moments. Happiness doesn’t have to wait for big milestones.

• I choose progress over perfection. Every step forward counts.

• I am not alone; community and connection are my strength. Sharing your journey lightens the load.

• I trust myself to handle whatever this season brings. You are stronger than you realize.

P.S. Stay tuned—something special is brewing in Houston 👀. I’m planning a Mental Health event to connect, recharge, and grow together. More details coming soon!

We celebrate YOU! Whether it’s a small win or a major breakthrough, your story matters. Share your accomplishments or mental health wins with us at [email protected]—your journey might inspire someone else. Got questions about therapy, mental health, or self-care? Send them our way! We’re here to offer support or help point you in the right direction. And if you know someone who’d vibe with this newsletter, forward it along—let’s grow this community together. 💪🏾✨